Key Themes in Sino-American History

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2026

DOI

10.55540/0031-1723.3392

Publication Title

Parameters: U.S. Army War College

Volume

56

Issue

2

Pages

69-83

Abstract

This article examines how historical narratives shape the messaging of the Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Republic of China, particularly regarding Sino-American relations. It identifies three key historical themes—trade, discriminatory policies, and Taiwan—that are frequently invoked in China’s statements and information campaigns. By contextualizing these themes, the article argues that military and national security professionals need a deeper understanding of Sino-American history to interpret China’s messaging correctly and counter its influence effectively. The article advocates for the integration of Sino-American historical content into professional military education curricula to enhance strategic awareness and policy formulation.

Rights

USAWC Press © 2026

"The following uses are always permitted to authors and do not require further permission from USAWC Press provided authors do not alter the format or content of articles, including the copyright notification:

Posting of the article on the internet as part of a non-commercial open access institutional repository or other non-commercial open access publication site affiliated with the authors' place of employment (e.g., a Phrenology professor at the University of Southern North Dakota can have her article appear in the University of Southern North Dakota's Department of Phrenology online publication series)"

ORCID

0009-0007-4856-2896 (Murphy)

Original Publication Citation

Lorenzo, D. J., & Murphy, I. (2026). Key themes in Sino-American history. Parameters: U.S. Army War College, 56(2), 69-83. https://doi.org/10.55540/0031-1723.3392

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS